What is the meaning of Judges 20:16? Among all these soldiers • The broader context is the mustering of Israel’s forces against Benjamin after the grievous sin in Gibeah (Judges 20:14–15). • Scripture underscores that this elite group came from “all” the troops, emphasizing God’s concern with both quantity and quality (cf. Judges 7:2–7 where Gideon’s army is similarly sifted). • The narrative reminds us that amid national crisis the Lord can set apart exceptional instruments, echoing how He designated specific craftsmen for the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–5). there were 700 select left-handers • “Left-handers” signals a distinctive tactical advantage. In Judges 3:15, the Lord previously raised up the left-handed Ehud from the same tribe of Benjamin, indicating a recurring pattern of God using what seems unusual to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27). • “700” conveys completeness and notable strength; the text treats this number as literal, underscoring that true historical details matter to God’s record (cf. Numbers 1:46, precise census totals). • “Select” speaks of rigorous selection—only the best of the best. Just as David later gathers “mighty men” (2 Samuel 23:8–39), Israel recognizes exemplary skill for strategic tasks. each of whom could sling a stone at a hair • The sling was a common but potent weapon (1 Samuel 17:40). Hitting “a hair” illustrates pinpoint precision, celebrating human excellence guided by divine gifting (Exodus 35:31). • This picture anticipates later biblical moments where small projectiles accomplish great ends, such as David’s victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:49). God often delivers through what the world deems insignificant (Zechariah 4:10). • Skillful preparation does not negate faith; instead, it complements it. Proverbs 22:29 honors those “skilled in their work,” showing diligence glorifies the Lord. without missing • “Without missing” stresses unfailing accuracy, a trait ascribed to God Himself: “For the LORD’s word is upright, and all His work is trustworthy” (Psalm 33:4). • The phrase points to reliability in battle, reminding believers that consistency matters in service (1 Corinthians 15:58). • When human precision mirrors divine faithfulness, it illustrates how God equips people to reflect His character of perfection (Matthew 5:48 applied in vocation). summary Judges 20:16 showcases a literal historical detail that also carries spiritual weight. From the mass of Israel’s warriors, God highlights 700 specially trained left-handed Benjamites whose flawless aim exemplifies excellence under His sovereign hand. Their existence affirms that the Lord values skill, intentional preparation, and faithful dependability. As with Ehud and David, God uses particular abilities—sometimes unexpected—to advance His righteous purposes, calling His people to combine diligent craftsmanship with unwavering trust in Him. |
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